Comparison

Macky vs Jump Desktop

Jump Desktop is a mature remote desktop app with support for both RDP and its own Fluid Remote Desktop protocol. It handles full GUI access well across multiple platforms. Macky is different: it focuses on the terminal, works over WebRTC, and is built specifically for iPhone-to-Mac access.

Macky
Jump Desktop
Connection
WebRTC (peer-to-peer)
RDP / Fluid Remote Desktop
Focus
Terminal-first
Desktop-first (full GUI)
Platform Support
macOS host + iPhone remote
iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, Linux
Setup
Zero config — install and connect
Host software install, network configuration
AI Tools
Native support (Claude Code, Codex)
No built-in AI tool support
Bandwidth
Low — text-based terminal
Higher — full screen rendering
Pricing
Free / $29 lifetime
Paid app
01

Different Protocols

Jump Desktop uses RDP and its Fluid protocol, both designed to transmit a rendered desktop. Macky uses WebRTC for a direct peer-to-peer connection that carries terminal data. For developers who live in the terminal, WebRTC is faster and uses far less bandwidth.

02

Terminal-First vs Desktop-First

Jump Desktop gives you the full Mac desktop rendered on your phone. Macky gives you a terminal. If your work is command-line-based, the terminal-first approach is more practical on a small screen and works better on mobile data.

03

Built for Developers

Macky has native support for Claude Code and Codex. Run AI coding agents from your phone, monitor their output, and approve changes. Jump Desktop has no developer-specific tooling.

When to Use Jump Desktop

Jump Desktop is the better choice when you need full GUI access to your Mac, want to connect from a non-iPhone device, or operate in Windows and RDP environments. Its Fluid protocol delivers smooth desktop performance, and its cross-platform support is broad. It's also a solid option if you need to remote into Windows machines.

If you primarily need terminal access to your Mac from your iPhone — with minimal setup and low bandwidth usage — Macky is the more focused tool for that job.

Try Macky

Terminal-first Mac access from your iPhone. Free to start.